Peter Kay’s Manchester shows postponed amid Co-op Live chaos

The comedian’s performance on Tuesday was due to be the grand opening of the £350 million arena, with a second planned for the following evening
Kay announced his return to stand-up two years ago with his first live tour in 12 years
Kay announced his return to stand-up two years ago with his first live tour in 12 years
PETER BYRNE/PA

Peter Kay has been forced to rearrange yet another show at the new Co-op Live arena in Manchester amid continuing problems at the £350 million venue.

The comedian’s stand-up show was due to be the grand opening of the 23,500-capacity site on Tuesday night, with a second performance planned for the following evening.

However, continuing construction works and a failure to achieve building regulations sign-off meant the shows were first delayed for six days and have now been pushed back until late May.

The new music venue, next to Manchester City’s Etihad stadium, is the UK’s biggest indoor arena
The new music venue, next to Manchester City’s Etihad stadium, is the UK’s biggest indoor arena
IOANNIS ALEXOPOULOS/ANADOLU AGENCY/GETTY IMAGES

Music arena Co-op Live goes down the electric avenue

Problems with power at the site, which are believed to have affected fire safeguards and emergency services communication systems, had already forced bosses to reduce capacity for the venue’s test event from